Real-time tram information gets a boost

Above: image of tramTRACKER mini unit

Customers have welcomed the introduction of tramTRACKER mini units at another 50 tram stops to provide real-time tram arrival predictions. 

This mini version of live arrival prediction screens is powered by tramTRACKER and delivers the next arriving trams in real time, voice options for visually impaired customers, alerts for planned or unplanned disruptions and advice on which trams are low-floor for easy access.

The mini units, which can be adapted to fit any tram stop on the network, are solar powered to improve the sustainability of the tram network.

Meanwhile, 40 CBD tram stops have been fitted with a second new system allowing real-time service announcements to be broadcast remotely from Yarra Trams' Operations Centre.

Real-time information is now available to passengers via tramTRACKER displays at tram stops, announcements onboard and at tram stops, and via the tramTRACKER app for iPhone and Android smartphones

Customer surveys indicated a high degree of satisfaction with the trial of tramTRACKER mini units at nine tram stops in 2014.

The success of this trial meant funding approval from Public Transport Victoria (PTV) for a further 50 tram stops.

10 remote PA units were successfully trialled on Collins Street last year, leading to funding approval from PTV for another 30 units.

The remote PA system means Yarra Trams can now broadcast live to passengers at tram stops across the CBD.

Typical announcements include safety reminders, information about extra trams to special events or service disruption messages.

Installation of these new customer information tools was completed at the end of March.

Public Transport Victoria CEO Mark Wild says, "Public Transport Victoria and Yarra Trams are committed to improving the customer journey.

"Real-time information provided by these innovations helps customers make more informed decisions about their travel options," Mr Wild says.

Yarra Trams CEO Clément Michel says, "tramTRACKER mini provides a much lower cost option, making real-time information a possibility at every tram stop on the network.

"tramTRACKER mini uses existing passenger information infrastructure found at tram stops which has been used for many years.

"The design of tramTRACKER mini includes a number of anti-vandal features and provides automatic alerts back to the Operations Centre when the data feed cannot be found."

"Customers surveyed thought this was a great way to provide live disruption information at tram stops.

"Live announcements will mean customers receive more detailed information than is possible through digital information displays at the stop. They will provide updates on the status of the disruption and alternative travel options where possible.

"When there are no service disruptions passengers will receive important information which will enhance their travel experience and speed up boarding at the stop."

tramTRACKER mini units are now located at the following tram stops:  

Bridge Road at:

• Bosisto Street
• Church Street
• Richmond Town Hall
• Coppin Street
• Burnley Street
• Yarra Boulevard

Brunswick Street at:

• Fitzroy Bowling Club
• Gertrude Street
• Johnston Street
• Hanover Street
• Leicester Street
• Newry Street
• Alexandra Parade

Burwood Road at:

• St James Park
• Hawthorn Station

Gertrude Street at:

• Brunswick Street
• Napier Street

Gisborne Street at:

• Albert Street

Queens Parade at:

• Clifton Hill Interchange

Smith Street at:

• Johnston Street
• Rose Street
• Gertrude Street
• Peel Street
• Keele Street
• Alexandra Parade

Swan Street at:

• Lennox Street
• Church Street
• Edinburg Street
• Burnley Street
• Stawell Street
• Madden Grove
• Punt Road
• Richmond Station

Toorak Road at:

• South Yarra Station

Victoria Street at:

• North Richmond Station
• Nicholson Street
• Church Street
• Flockhart Street
• McKay Street
• Leslie Street

Wellington Parade at:

• Lansdowne Street
• Simpson Street